Goldfinches by Mary Oliver
Some goldfinches were having a melodious argument at the edge of a puddle. The birds wanted to bathe, or perhaps just to dip their heads and look at themselves, and they were having trouble with who should be first, and so on. So they discussed it while I stood in the distance, listening. Perhaps in Tibet, in the old holy places, they also have such fragile bells. Or are these birds really just that, bells come to us--come to this road in America--let us bow our heads and remember now how we used to do it, say a prayer. Meanwhile the birds bathe and splash and have a good time. Then they fly off, their dark wings opening from their bright, yellow bodies; their tiny feet, all washed, clasping the air.

...and spend your life, with all your love and happyness!
ReplyDeleteEnjoy it!
I LOVE that! I constantly encourage my husband to do this with me. I may have to put this on a wall somewhere.
ReplyDeleteOh God, I love that!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteAnd she should know--she has spent hers so well!
ReplyDeleteThis is going on the wall. Thanks!
Love the sundial, too. Is that yours?
That's wonderful. Unfortunately I get to spend my afternoon in front of the computer. Fortunately I get to watch the sun and the trees through the window.
ReplyDeleteNice.
ReplyDeleteSigh and a smile.
ReplyDeletecounting only the happy, sunny hours.
ReplyDeleteAmen, brother Ben!
ReplyDeleteWe all need this reminder sometimes!
ReplyDeleteI love that!
ReplyDelete